Foot-therapy and toe-aligning device

ABSTRACT

Described is an exercise tool. More particularly, it is a therapy and exercise tool specifically devised as a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device to align, separate, and stretch toes. The foot-therapy and toe-aligning device comprises a frame with a plurality of posts connected with the frame. The device is formed of an elastic material such that a user may place at least one of the plurality of posts between a user&#39;s toes and pull the post to stretch and elongate the post between the toes. Upon release, the elastic material of the post causes the post to attempt to return to its original shape, thereby causing it to expand out and conform its shape to fit snugly against the user&#39;s toes. Additionally, the elastic material allows the toe posts to be positioned and maintained at numerous locations between the user&#39;s toes for customizable positioning between the toes.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a Continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/858,828, filed on Sep. 18, 2015, now issued asU.S. Pat. No. 9,387,359, which is a Continuation application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/830,654, filed on Mar. 14, 2013, nowissued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,138,616, which is a Continuation applicationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/196,785, filed on Aug. 2, 2011,now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,932,186, which is a Continuationapplication of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/982,390, filed onOct. 31, 2007, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,002,675, which is aContinuation-in-Part patent application of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 11/541,067, filed on Sep. 28, 2006, now issued as U.S. Pat. No.7,322,915, which is a divisional application of U.S. application Ser.No. 10/687,354, filed on Oct. 17, 2003, now issued as U.S. Pat. No.7,131,939.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

(1) Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an exercise tool, and moreparticularly, to a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device that is devisedto align, separate, treat, and stretch toes.

(2) Description of Related Art

Therapy and exercise tools have long been known in prior art. Recently,such tools have been applied to not only stretch larger muscles, butalso to those in the feet and toes. Several toe-stretching, exercisingand aligning devices have been invented where a user places a toestretcher (aligner) between the user's toes. However, as scientificunderstanding advances, more effective and convenient devices are nowpossible.

A few advantages of existing toe stretcher devices are that theygenerally increase foot strength, increase toe and ankle flexibility,improve arches, stretch Achilles' tendons, and realign toes. Althoughtoe stretchers devised to-date partially fulfill this need, they aredifficult to use and remain tied to past technology and information,limiting their convenience and effectiveness. By way of example, U.S.Pat. No. 5,076,263, issued to Funatogawa (hereinafter “the Funatogawainvention”), discloses a toe holder consisting of a frame with fiveholes (each separated by a toe post) for toe insertion. The five holesare substantially circular, with each circle being sealed around itsperimeter. Because each circle is sealed, inserting all five toes hasbeen problematic, making it difficult to put the toe stretcher on andtake it off. Additionally, this design does not allow for the widevariations seen in foot/toe shape or condition. Thus, in some cases, thedevices are unwearable. Additionally, altering the relative positioningof the individual posts to easily fit a specific person's foot, orcondition is again impossible with the Funatogawa invention because thesurrounding frame is connected with each toe post. This also makes itimpossible to separate the frame for toe insertion. Separating the frame(i.e., pulling top and bottom portions of the frame away from eachother) in the Funatogawa invention would pull the toe posts together,thereby causing the toe holes to become increasingly narrow uponelongation. Because the holes are sealed around their perimeter, theFunatogawa invention does not allow for a more custom, individual postpositioning. Further, the Funatogawa invention does not mention a meansto keep the post in a custom position (i.e., through elongation andreturn).

Additionally, the Applicant of the present invention previously filedU.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/687,354, entitled, “Toe Stretcher”(hereinafter “application '354), now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,131,939.Application '354 disclosed a toe stretcher having a frame with aseparator for separating a plurality of toes. The frame included a topportion, a bottom portion, a front portion, and a back portion. Theframe further included a plurality of holes through the frame forinsertion of a plurality of toes, wherein each hole in the plurality ofholes includes an entrance into the back portion, an exit from the frontportion, and surrounding walls connecting the entrance with the exit.The surrounding wall in at least one hole in the plurality of holes iscontinuous and thereby sealed, and the surrounding wall in at least oneother hole in the plurality of holes is non-continuous and thereby notsealed, serving as an openable toe hole allowing for easy insertion of atoe. While application '354 is particularly effective in stretching andaligning a user's toes, it requires a user to force at least one toethrough a hole.

U.S. Pat. No. D415,858, issued to Funatogawa (hereinafter “theFunatogawa2 invention”), discloses a die-cut toe separator design,common in the cosmetic industry, having a bottom frame with at leastfour toe posts protruding up from the bottom frame. The toe separator inthe Funatogawa2 invention appears to be formed of a die-cut foam anddoes not produce or teach a calculated balance of elastomeric propertiesand design shapes. Die-cut foam toe separators (for painting toe nails)are common and have been well known in the art for several years.Die-cut foam typically results in 90 degree angles, such as the 90degree angles shown between the toe holes and the front and backportions (i.e., two-planes) of the frame in the Funatogawa2 invention.The two-plane, 90 degree cut and thickness represented in theFunatogawa2 invention would be extremely difficult if not impossible, togenerate if the product disclosed in the Funatogawa2 invention wasdie-cut of an elastomeric gel material.

Additionally, the two-plane die-cutting design in the Funatogawa2invention does not disclose ergonomically shaped toe posts. Forbeneficial effects, a user would ideally wear the product for anextended period of time, unlike cosmetic toe separators. Because of thesharp edges and two-plane thick posts, the Funatogawa2 inventiondisclosed in the design patent cannot be worn for extended periods as itwould be extremely uncomfortable. The 90 degree edges and planersurfaces of the funtagowa2 invention would focus and localize pressureon the skin, the underlying muscle, the nerves, and the bone. As such,the Funatogawa2 invention was clearly not intended to be a therapeutictool.

Due to the die-cut foam and its two-plane design, the toe separatordisclosed in the Funatogawa2 invention could not have the requiredproperties of elongation, contraction and compression resistance, andstill be comfortable to use and impart therapeutic benefits.

Further, as noted in the illustrations of the Funatogawa2 invention, theproportionality of the thickness-to-length-to-height dimensions of thetoe separator are sufficient to allow a user to place toes within thetoe separator. However, the dimensions do not provide a sufficientproportionality to allow a user to stretch the toes outward and awayfrom the ball of the foot. Thus, based on the illustrations of theFunatogawa2 invention, it is clear that the toe separator was designedas a cosmetic tool rather than an exercise and therapeutic device.

Additionally, foam does not elongate sufficiently to allow a user tostretch the toe post or frame. Thus, a need exists for an intendedstretchable toe post (and/or frame) because in stretching, the toe postbecomes thinner in diameter and is thereby more easily placed betweenthe user's toes. Upon release, a stretched toe post would contract inlength and expand circumferentially to conform tightly to andeffectively hold the user's toes, thereby remaining in the desiredposition. When released, the post would expand outwardly to increasepressure against the toes and thereby hold the device in the desiredposition. Equally significant, the posts would contract along alengthwise axis to impart a lengthwise axis compressive holding force onthe surface of the toe as well, also holding the device in the desiredposition. The forces resulting from contraction and elongation,individually and in combination, would easily enable a user to place,affix and maintain a toe post position between a user's toes.

Therefore, it can be appreciated that a continuing need exists for a newand improved foot-therapy, exercise and aligning device that allows foraxially, ergonomically-contoured post shapes, and a means of maintaininga post in a custom placed position through a calculated balance ofelastomeric properties and design shape.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to an exercise tool, and moreparticularly, to an exercise tool devised as a foot-therapy device toalign, separate, and stretch toes. In one aspect, the devices comprise aframe that includes a top portion and a bottom portion. A plurality ofposts (that are formed of an elastic (e.g., elastomeric) material) areconnected with and extend from the top portion of the frame, whereby auser may place at least one of the plurality of posts between a user'stoes. The posts have a length, a diameter, and a circumference, andfurther possess elastic (e.g., elastomeric) properties.

In another aspect, each of the plurality of posts has an outer edge andfurther comprises a handle attached with the outer edge.

In yet another aspect, the handles include an attachment mechanism,allowing user to connect the handles using a connector that connectswith the attachment mechanism.

In yet another aspect, the attachment mechanism includes holes formedthrough the plurality of handles such that a user can connect thehandles by using a connector that passes through the holes.

Additionally, the elastic material is an elastomer gel.

In another aspect, the device (e.g., frame and/or posts) is formed of anelastic material, such as an elastomer gel.

In yet another aspect, the handle is formed as a ring to allow a user tograsp the ring and stretch a post.

Additionally, each of the plurality of posts has a length, an outer postsurface, and a center post axis running the post length. Further, theelastic material in the post has a density, with the density varyingfrom the outer post surface to the center post axis.

Furthermore, the frame has an outer frame surface, a frame length, and acenter frame-axis running the frame length. Additionally, the elasticmaterial in the frame has a density, with the density varying from theouter frame surface to the center frame-axis.

In yet another aspect, a rigid material is positioned within the framefor providing a rigid support.

In another aspect, an electronic device is attached with thefoot-therapy and toe-aligning device. The electronic device is a deviceselected from a group consisting of a vibrating system for massaging andstimulating a user's toes, a light system, a heating system, a sensor, acooling system, and a pulsating pressure mechanism.

In another aspect, a motion sensor is connected with an electronicdevice for actuating the electronic device.

In yet another aspect, a remote control is connected with the electronicdevice for allowing a user to selectively control the electronic device.

Additionally, the electronic device is controlled by a processing unit.

In another aspect, a controller chip is connected with the foot-therapyand toe-aligning device.

Further, the sensor is configured to provide feedback to a user when apredetermined threshold is reached. The feedback is provided in a mannerselected from a group consisting of at least one of light, sound,vibration, and a change in temperature.

In yet another aspect, each of the plurality of posts has an exposedouter edge and further comprises a plurality of handles connected withthe outer edge of each of the plurality of posts, where a handle isconnected with an outer edge. Additionally, an electronic device isattached with the handle.

In another aspect, the frame has an outer frame surface, a frame length,and a center frame-axis running the frame length. Each of the pluralityof posts has a length, an outer post surface, and a center post axisrunning the post length.

A magnet is attached with the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device in amanner selected from a group consisting of being positioned within apost, being attached with the outer post surface of the post, beingpositioned within an interior of the frame, and being attached with theouter frame surface of the frame.

In another aspect, each of the plurality of posts has an exposed outeredge and further comprises a plurality of handles connected with theouter edge of each of the plurality of posts, where a handle isconnected with an outer edge. Further, a magnet is attached with thehandle.

In yet another aspect, a port is formed through at least one of theplurality of posts and/or frame. The port is formed to allow a user toinsert a material into the port for dispersal proximate to a user'stoes.

In another aspect, the frame has an outer frame surface and each of theplurality of posts has an outer post surface. Additionally, a reservoiris formed in at least one of the following: the outer post surface andthe outer frame surface, whereby a user may position a material into thereservoir.

In yet another aspect, each of the plurality of posts has an exposedouter edge and further comprises a plurality of handles connected withthe outer edge of each of the plurality of posts, where a single handleis connected with a single outer edge. Further, a reservoir is formed inthe handle.

In another aspect, a footwear is attached with the frame.

In yet another aspect, the frame is formed as a shoe sole insert,thereby allowing a user to place the foot-therapy and toe-aligningdevice within a shoe and wear the shoe while treating the user's toes.

In another aspect, the present invention further comprises a shoe soleinsert attached with the frame, thereby allowing a user to place thefoot-therapy and toe-aligning device within a shoe and wear the shoewhile treating the user's toes.

In another aspect, each handle is integrally formed with itscorresponding post as a single piece.

In yet another aspect, the present invention further comprises a sleevefor positioning over a toe post.

In another aspect, a support structure is disposed within the toe post.

Further, the frame is formed of a transparent material, allowing lightto pass through the material.

In yet another aspect, an implantation element is inserted within theframe.

In another aspect, the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device comprises anelongated post formed of an elastic material. The elongated postincludes two opposing edges, whereby a user may use the two opposingedges to stretch the elongated post and place the now stretchedelongated post between two adjacent toes, and where upon release, theelastic material of the post causes the post to conform its shape to fitsnugly against the user's toes.

In yet another aspect, handles are attached at each of the two opposingedges, whereby a user may use the handles to stretch the elongated post.Additionally, the handles are integrally formed with the elongated postas a single piece.

In another aspect, the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device comprises aframe with a separator for separating a plurality of toes. The framecomprises a top portion, a bottom portion, a front portion, and a backportion. The frame further includes a plurality of holes through theframe for insertion of a plurality of toes. Each hole in the pluralityof holes includes an entrance into the back portion, an exit from thefront portion, and surrounding walls connecting the entrance with theexit. The surrounding walls in at least one hole in the plurality ofholes is continuous and thereby sealed. Alternatively, the surroundingwalls in at least one other hole in the plurality of holes isnon-continuous and thereby not sealed, serving as an openable toe holeallowing for easy insertion of a toe, whereby a user may place the toestretcher on the plurality of toes and effectively separate and stretchthe toes.

In another aspect, the frame is formed of a transparent, elasticmaterial and further includes an implantation element inserted withinthe frame.

In yet another aspect, a reservoir system is formed within the frame forreceiving a material externally and applying the material to a userthrough use of the reservoir and the device.

In another aspect, an attachment mechanism is attached with the framefor allowing a user to attach an external object (such as an electronicdevice) with the device via the attachment mechanism. The electronicdevice can be attached internally or externally (using the attachmentmechanism). Non-limiting examples of such an electronic device include avibrator mechanism, a heating system, a cooling system, and a lightsystem.

Finally, the present invention also includes a method for forming andusing the device described herein. As can be appreciated by one skilledin the art, the method for forming the device comprises a plurality ofacts of forming and attaching the device and related components.Further, the method for using the device comprises a plurality of actsapplying and using the device as described below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The nature of the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device described hereinwill be readily apparent in the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating the device beingattached with a user's toes;

FIG. 3A is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 3B is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device,illustrating various handle configurations according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 3C is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device,illustrating a handle configuration according to the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating holes formed through aplurality of posts;

FIG. 5 is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating an electronic devicebeing connected with the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device;

FIG. 6 is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating a motion sensor and aremote control being connected with the electronic device;

FIG. 7 is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating a port being formedthrough a post, and a reservoir being formed on the foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device;

FIG. 8 is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating the foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device being attached with a footwear;

FIG. 9 is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating the foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device being integrally formed with the footwear;

FIG. 10 is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating the foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device being attached with a shoe insole;

FIG. 11 is a front-view of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating the foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device being integrally formed with shoe insole;

FIG. 12 is an illustration of another aspect of a foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device according to the present invention, where thefoot-therapy and toe-aligning device is formed as a dumbbell shapedpost;

FIG. 13 is an illustration of a sleeve for covering a toe post accordingto the present invention;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of the foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, with a support structure disposedtherein;

FIG. 15 is an illustration of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 16 is an illustration of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, with toes inserted therein;

FIG. 17 is an illustration of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating implantation elementsimplanted within the device;

FIG. 18 is an illustration of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating external objects beingattached with the device via an attachment mechanism; and

FIG. 19 is an illustration of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning deviceaccording to the present invention, illustrating a support structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to an exercise tool, and moreparticularly, to a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device that is devisedto align, separate, treat, and stretch toes. The following descriptionis presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and usethe invention and to incorporate it in the context of particularapplications. Various modifications, as well as a variety of uses indifferent applications will be readily apparent to those skilled in theart, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to a widerange of embodiments. Thus, the present invention is not intended to belimited to the embodiments presented, but is to be accorded the widestscope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosedherein.

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are setforth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the presentinvention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art thatthe present invention may be practiced without necessarily being limitedto these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures anddevices may be shown in block diagram form, rather than in detail, inorder to avoid obscuring the present invention.

The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which arefiled concurrently with this specification and which are open to publicinspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papersand documents are incorporated herein by reference. All the featuresdisclosed in this specification, (including any accompanying claims,abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features servingthe same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly statedotherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each featuredisclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent orsimilar features.

Furthermore, any element in a claim that does not explicitly state“means for” performing a specified function, or “step for” performing aspecific function, is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step”clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. Section 112, Paragraph 6. Inparticular, the use of “step of” or “act of” in the claims herein is notintended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 12, Paragraph 6.

(1) Description of Various Aspects

A foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 100 according to the presentinvention is shown in FIG. 1. The foot-therapy and toe-aligning device100 comprises a frame 102 that allows for a post (described below) tobecome attached, embedded, or integrally formed thereto. The device 100(including the frame 102) is constructed of any suitable material, anon-limiting example of which includes an elastic material (e.g., anelastomeric gel such as a polymer or any other suitable elasticmaterial). Although the frame 102 can be formed of other materials, itis desirable that it is formed of an elastomeric material. Additionally,the frame 102 may be optionally inflatable or filled with a fluid. Wheninflatable, the frame 102 may be inflatable to various pressures.Furthermore, the frame 102 may be formed through any suitable means forforming a frame 102, non-limiting examples of which include injectionmolding, cast molding, compression molding, and extrusion molding.Further, the device (e.g., frame 102 and posts) are formed of a material(e.g., transparent material) that allows light to pass through thematerial. For example, the elastomeric gel is transparent such that auser can see into or through the frame 102 (and posts) and the device100. The device 100 can be formed such that its transparency ranges from100 percent to a being opaque.

The frame 102 includes a top portion 104, a bottom portion 106, a frontportion 108, and a back portion 110. A plurality of posts 112 formed ofan elastic material are connected with the frame 102 such that theyextend from the top portion 104. A non-limiting example of theelastic/elastomeric material is a polymer elastic gel. Each of theplurality of posts 112 has an exposed outer edge 114. The posts 112 canbe separately formed and attached with the frame 102 or, in anotheraspect, the posts 112 are integrally formed with the with the frame 102through a single, injection-molding process where the frame 102 andposts 112 are separate in name only.

FIG. 2 illustrates a user 200 using the foot-therapy and toe-aligningdevice 100. As shown, a user 200 may place at least one of the pluralityof posts 112 between their toes 202 and pull 203 the post 112 to stretchand elongate the post 112 between the toes 202. Upon release, theelastic/elastomeric material of the post 112 causes the post 112 toattempt to return 204 (contract) to its original shape. Because a toe202 is placed between two adjacent posts 112, the post cannot return toits exact original shape, thereby causing portions of the post to expandout and conform its shape to, and fit, snugly against, the user's toes202. For example, a top portion (and sometimes a bottom portion) of thepost expands out to fit snugly against the toes 202.

The ability of the posts 112 to conform their shape to a user's toes 202is a beneficial feature of the present invention. For example, the toeposts in the prior art are formed of a die-cut or pressure moldedsemi-rigid foam. Due to the nature of foam, foam does not allow for therequired elongation and subsequent conforming shape of the toe posts, asapplicable to the present invention. In other prior art, such asApplication '354, the outer edges of the toe posts are connected by aframe. Because the outer edges of the frame are connected, the toe postsin Application '354 cannot be easily elongated and returned to conformtheir shape to the user's toes.

For further clarification, referring to FIG. 1, the toe posts 112 have alength 116, a diameter 118, and a circumference 120. Being formed of anelastomeric material causes the toe posts 112 to have properties suchthat stretching the toe posts 112 lengthwise 116 causes the toe posts112 to become thinner in diameter 118 and thereby more easily placedbetween the user's toes. Upon release, a stretched toe post 112 wouldcontract in length 116 and expand circumferentially 120 to conformtightly to and effectively hold the user's toes, thereby remaining inthe desired position. In other words, when released, the post 112expands its diameter 118 to increase pressure against the toes andthereby hold the device in the desired position. Equally significant,the posts 112 contract along a lengthwise 116 axis to impart alengthwise 116 axis compressive holding force on the surface of the toeas well, also holding the device in the desired position. The forcesresulting from contraction and elongation, individually and incombination, easily enable a user to place, affix and maintain a toepost 112 position between a user's toes.

Thus, the elastomeric material of the toe posts 112 of the presentinvention provides a benefit that allows the foot therapy andtoe-aligning device 100 to be easily applied to a user's toes 202 bybeing elongated and then placed individually between adjacent toes 202.The toe post 112 can be positioned fore and aft between the toes 202 toallow for user-specific placement and positioning. Thereafter, uponrelease, the elastomeric material of the toe post 112 causes the toepost 112 to conform its shape to the user's toes 202 and to bepositioned and maintained at numerous locations between the user's toes202 for customizable positioning. To provide this effect, the toe posts112 are formed of an elastomeric polymer that has sufficient elastomericproperties.

For example, if the toe posts 112 are too soft, then they will notprovide a therapeutic benefit of separating adjacent toes 202.Alternatively, if the toe posts 112 are too hard (e.g., hard plastic),then they will not allow the toe posts 112 to be stretched and releasedto be conformed to the user's toes 202. As a non-limiting example, thetoe posts 112 are desirably formed of an elastomeric material having thefollowing properties: hardness between 20 and 90 on the Shore 00 scalefor product comfort; elongation between 50% and 1000% for productfunctionality; and tensile strength between 100 and 2000 pounds persquare inch (psi). More specifically, the toe posts 112 are formed of anelastomeric material having the following properties: hardness between35 and 80 on the Shore 00 scale; elongation between 50% and 800%; andtensile strength between 100 and 800 psi. As can be appreciated by oneskilled in the art, the above ranges are for exemplary illustrativepurposes only and are not intended to limit the present inventionthereto.

As shown in the figures, the toe posts 112 are formed in any suitableergonomic shape, non-limiting examples of which include being conicallyand/or cylindrically shaped. The toe post 112 is formed in a shape toprovide a therapeutic benefit in combination with the properties of theelastomeric material. For example, in certain circumstances, a thickertoe post 112 would benefit from a softer elastomeric material.Alternatively, a thinner toe post 112 would benefit from harderelastomeric material.

It should be noted that the description above with respect to theelastomeric material of the toe posts 112 is also applicable to theframe 102. For example, the frame 102 can also be formed of anelastomeric material that includes all of the elastomeric propertieslisted above. Thus, the frame 102 is formed to also provide forextension and compression forces. In this aspect, the frame 102 can bestretched 206 along a lateral axis to allow a user to position the frame102 against the user's 200 foot. Upon release of the stretched frame102, the frame 102 contracts in an attempt to return to its originalshape which causes the frame 102 to snuggly hold the toes 202 in placealong the lateral axis of the frame 102.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the frame 102 has an outer frame surface 300, aframe length 302, and a center frame-axis 304 running the frame length302. Additionally, each of the plurality of posts 112 has a length 306,an outer post surface 308, and a center post axis 310 running the postlength 306. The material forming the frame 102 and posts 112 is formedto have a consistent density throughout the frame 102 and posts 112respectively. In another aspect, the elastomeric material forming theposts 112 has a compression resistance and a density that varies fromthe outer post surface 308 to the center post axis 310 (as anon-limiting example, the density is greater at the center post axis 310and decreases toward the outer post surface 308). In yet another aspect,the elastomeric material forming the frame 102 has a compressionresistance and density that varies from the outer frame surface 300 tothe center frame axis 304 (as a non-limiting example, the density isgreater at the center frame axis 304 than the outer frame surface 300).The compression resistance is softer on the outside and harder on theinside of each of the respective locations. Alternatively, thecompression resistance can be harder on the outside and softer on theinside.

To assist a user in stretching each post 112, each post 112 includes ahandle 312 connected with the outer edge 114. The handle 312 can beformed as the outer edge 114 itself, or formed separately and attachedwith the outer edge 114. As a non-limiting example, the outer edge 114of the toe post 112 is formed in a bulbous shape to operate as a handle312. The handle 312 allows a user to easily stretch and elongate thepost 112.

FIG. 3B illustrates additional integral and attached handleconfigurations according to the present invention. For example, thehandle can be an integrally formed ring 314 that is formed at the outeredge 114 of the post 112. As can be appreciated by one skilled in theart, an example of such a process for forming an integrally formed ring314 is one-piece injection molding. Using a ring-shape, a user caninsert a finger into or grasp the ring to stretch the post 112. Inanother aspect, the handle can be a fused ring 316 that is separatelyformed and fused to the outer edge 114 of the post 112 using standardmaterial fusing techniques (e.g., melting and gluing). In yet anotheraspect, the handle can be a solid ring 318 that is attached with ananchor 320 that is disposed within the post 112. For example, the solidring 318 can be formed of a stiff material such as a hard plastic ormetal that allows a user to grasp the handle and stretch the post 112,with the anchor 320 pulling up upon the outer edge 114. As can beappreciated by one skilled in the art, the handle is any suitable shapeto allow a user to hold and stretch the post 112. For example, thehandle can also be formed as a solid bar 322 that is attached with ananchor 320 disposed within the post 112.

FIG. 3C illustrates yet another handle configuration. In this aspect,the handle 312 is connected with the outer edge 114 of each of theplurality of posts 112. The handle 312 can be integrally formed with theposts 112, or formed as a separate item and attached with the posts 112(either externally using an attachment mechanism (as described below) orinternally). For example, the handle 312 can be connected with an anchor320 that is disposed within each of the posts 112.

As shown in FIG. 4, the handles 312 optionally include an attachmentmechanism 400, allowing a user to connect the handles 312 using aconnector 402 that connects the attachment mechanism 400. The attachmentmechanism 400 is any suitable mechanism or device that allows forconnection with the connector 402, a non-limiting example of whichincludes holes formed through the handles 312. The connector 402 is anysuitable mechanism or device that can be connected with the attachmentmechanism 400 to allow a user to connect the handles 312, non-limitingexamples of which include a thread and cord.

In some applications, it is desirable to have an integral flexible frame102, such as that formed entirely of an elastomeric material. In otherapplications, it may be desirable to have a frame 102 that has anincreased rigidity. As such, in another aspect, a rigid material 404 ispositioned within the frame 102 to provide a rigid support for the frame102. The rigid material 404 is any suitable mechanism or device forproviding a rigid support for the frame 102, a non-limiting example ofwhich includes a rigid rod, such as a plastic rod.

As shown in FIG. 5, to provide additional therapeutic benefits to auser, an electronic device 500 is attached with the foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device 100. The electronic device 500 is attached with thefoot-therapy and toe-aligning device 100 in any suitable manner toprovide a desired therapeutic benefit, non-limiting examples of whichinclude being positioned within a post 112, being attached with theouter post surface 308 of the post 112, being positioned within aninterior of the frame 102, being attached with the outer frame surface300 of the frame 102, and being attached with a handle 312 (interiorand/or exterior).

The electronic device 500 is any suitable mechanism or device forproviding a therapeutic benefit, non-limiting examples of which includea vibrating mechanism for massaging and stimulating a user's toes, alight system (e.g., light-emitting diode, near infra-red), a heatingsystem (e.g., heating element), a cooling system, a sensor, and apulsating pressure mechanism. The sensor is any suitable mechanism ordevice capable of sensing something, non-limiting examples of whichinclude a pressure sensor, a light sensor, and a temperature sensor.

When a sensor is included, the sensor is configured to provide feedbackwhen a predetermined threshold is reached. For example, if the sensor isa pressure sensor, the sensor may create a sound when a certain amountof pressing pressure is reached. As another non-limiting example, if theelectronic device 500 is a heating element, an alarm may be sounded whenthe temperature reaches a certain degree. The feedback is any suitablefeedback for alerting a user, or third party, that the predeterminedthreshold has been met, non-limiting examples of which include light,sound, vibration, and temperature (e.g., change in temperature). Inother words, the feedback is any suitable feedback that can be receivedand interpreted by a user or a third party.

As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the electronic device500 requires a power source. The power source may be included within thedevice, or maintained externally and electrically connected with theelectronic device 500.

In another aspect, a magnet 502 is attached with the foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device 100 to provide a therapeutic benefit. The magnet 502is attached with the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 100 in anysuitable manner, non-limiting examples of which include being positionedwithin a post 112, being attached with the outer post surface 308 of thepost 112, being positioned within an interior of the frame 102, beingattached with the outer frame surface 300 of the frame 102, and beingattached with a handle 312. For illustrative purposes with respect toFIG. 5, the magnet 502 is interchangeable with the electronic device500.

As shown in FIG. 6, the electronic device 500 can be controlled througha variety of techniques. For example, a motion sensor 600 may beconnected with electronic device 500 to actuate the device 500. In thisaspect, the device 500 is turned on when the motion sensor 600 detectsmotion. As another example, a remote control 602 is connected with theelectronic device 500 to allow a user to selectively control theelectronic device 500, such as by turning it on, off, up, down, and to atime-cycle. The up and down controls relate to functions as applicableto certain electronic devices 500, such as when the electronic device isa heating element or a vibrating mechanism. Additionally, the remotecontrol 602 can be either wired or wireless.

With the advent of new computer technologies, it may be desirable tocontrol the electronic device 500 via a computer (i.e., processingunit). In this aspect, the remote control 602 is a processing unit thatcan operate the electronic device 500. For example, certaincomputer-controlled therapeutic programs can be operated and controlledvia the processing unit. As a specific non-limiting example, a massagetherapy program can be used to control the vibrating mechanism, where itincreases and decreases the vibrating strength of the vibratingmechanism according to a particular massage therapy program.

In addition to controlling the electronic device 500, the processingunit can be used to monitor and control the biological functions of theuser. For example, the processing unit can be connected to a temperaturesensor (e.g., a thermometer, as illustrated in FIG. 17) to monitor theuser's temperature. If the user's temperature falls outside apredetermined range of temperatures, the processing unit can turn on aheating or cooling system, as appropriate, to heat/cool the user. As canbe appreciated by one skilled in the an, such a monitoring and controlfeature can also be used to monitor and control external conditions anddevices, or other electronic devices, such as lights and a vibratormechanism.

In yet another aspect, a computer controller chip 604 can be connectedwith the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 100 itself. As was thecase above, the chip 604 is electronically connected with the electronicdevice 500 and is used to control the electronic device 500. The chip604 is connected with the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 100 atany suitable location, non-limiting examples of which include beingpositioned within a post 112, being attached with the outer post surface308, being positioned within an interior of the frame 102, beingattached with the outer frame surface 300 of the frame 102, and beingattached with a handle 312.

In another aspect, it may be desirable to apply a material (such as alotion or medicinal cream) to the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device100 for dispersal around a user's foot. As shown in FIG. 7, a port 700is formed through at least one of the plurality of posts 112 and/orframe 102. The port 700 is formed in any suitable manner to allow a userto insert a material into the port 700 for dispersal proximate a user'stoes. For example, the port 700 may have an inlet 702 formed in thehandle 312, with an outlet 704 formed in the post 112 such that materialinserted within the inlet 702 is dispersed to the user's toes at theoutlet 704.

The material may be applied to the user's foot through a variety oftechniques. For example, a reservoir 706 is formed in the foot-therapyand toe-aligning device 100 such that a user may position a materialinto the reservoir 706. The reservoir 706 is formed at any suitablelocation on the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 100, non-limitingexamples of which include being formed in the outer post surface 308,being formed in the outer frame surface 300, and being formed in thehandle 312. The reservoir 706 is formed in any suitable shape to holdthe material. For example, the reservoir 706 may be a simple divot, ormay include ribs. The reservoir 706 can be used to hold materialsexternally to be delivered on or through the device 100, non-limitingexamples of such materials include scented liquids, lotions, powders,and medicinal products (such as treatment products for athlete's foot).

In another aspect, any outer surface of the device 100 may includetraction members (not shown) to increase the contact surface area of thearea in which the traction members are formed. The traction membersimprove the traction characteristics between the device 100 and theuser. For example, the traction members may be ribs, bumps, notches,etc., to cause the device to better grip another surface. By way ofexample, the posts include traction members to assist the post inaffixing with an adjacent toe.

In another aspect, the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 100 can beincorporated into footwear through a variety of techniques. As shown inFIG. 8, a piece of footwear 800 is attached with the frame 102.Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 9, the piece of footwear 800 can operateas the frame, with the posts 112 protruding from the piece of footwear800.

In yet another aspect, the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 100 canbe incorporated into a shoe sole insert. As shown in FIG. 10, a shoesole insert 1000 is attached with the frame 102, thereby allowing a userto place the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 100 within a shoe andwear the shoe while treating the user's toes. Alternatively, as shown inFIG. 11, the shoe sole insert 1000 can operate as the frame, with posts112 attached with and protruding from the shoe sole insert 1000. Anotherexample of such a configuration would be an enlarged frame that includesa sufficient number of posts 112 for both feet (e.g., 8 posts) with theposts appropriately positioned to allow for placement of both feet uponthe enlarged frame. In this aspect, the enlarged frame would act as aplatform where both feet are held in place upon it using a combinationof the platform and toe posts 112. Such an aspect would be beneficial,for example, for holding both feet in place during a foot bath.

As described above, the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device includes aplurality of posts attached with some form of a frame. However, theinvention is not intended to be limited thereto and can includeadditional aspects, such as that shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 12 illustratesanother aspect of the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 1200. In thisaspect, the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 1200 comprises anelongated post 1202 formed of an elastomeric material. The elongatedpost 1202 has two opposing edges 1204 with handles 1206 attached at eachof the two opposing edges 1204. The handles 1206 may be separatelyformed and attached with the elongated post 1202, or integrally formedas a single piece. A user may use the handles 1206 to stretch 1208 theelongated post 1202 and place the now stretched elongated post 1202between two adjacent toes 1210. Upon release, the elastomeric materialof the post 1202 causes the post 1202 to conform its shape to fit snuglyagainst the user's toes 1210.

FIG. 13 illustrates another aspect of the present invention where asleeve 1300 is formed to fit over at least one of the toe posts 112. Thesleeve 1300 is generally formed in any suitable shape to contain a toepost 112 therein. For example, the sleeve 1300 is generally cylindrical.Additionally, the sleeve can be formed of an elastomeric material sothat it is expandable to conform to the shape of the post 112. Thesleeve 1300 can be a continuous or split sleeve 1302. The split sleeve1302 allows a user to open the sleeve for easy positioning over the post112. The sleeve allows a user to customize the therapeutic action of thepresent invention and to deliver medication, cream, magnets, scent, etc.to a user's toes. For example, a user can insert a cream within thesleeve such that the cream is dispersed around the edges of the sleeveto a user's toes. The sleeve can also be formed to hold other devices(non-limiting examples of which include a vibrator or orthopedic pad forthe ball of user's foot, etc.) to further treat and accommodate eachindividual's unique biometric characteristics. In another aspect, thesleeve itself can operate as a medicinal delivery mechanism fordelivering a medication to a user. As a non-limiting example of such amechanism, the sleeve can include the medications typically used in anon-smoking transdermal patch. Alternatively, the sleeve can operate asa base for placement of other medicinal systems. As a non-limitingexample, the sleeve is formed to operate as a base for placement of anadhesive non-smoking transdermal patch upon the sleeve, thereby allowingfor medical benefits.

It should be noted that the various medicinal delivery systems(reservoir, port, sleeve, etc.) described herein are not limited to theposts and can be formed and applied at any desirable portion of thedevice, such as within the holes, along the base, or at any otherportion of the device. Thus, using the present invention, a user canwear the device while simultaneously applying a myriad of creams,lotions, powders, medicines, etc.

When disposable, such a disposable post cover would allow multiplepeople to use the present invention without fear of cross-contaminationfrom other users. Additionally, the sleeve 1300 can be used to hold andtransport a product to the toes, non-limiting examples of such a productinclude an anti-fungal cream, an anti-bacterial agent, and/or amoisturizing material. In another aspect, the sleeve 1300 itself can beimpregnated with the product.

FIG. 14 illustrates another aspect of the present invention. A supportstructure 1400 can be disposed within the toe posts 112 to provide thetoe posts 112 with a rigid (or bendable/articulating) support. Thesupport structure 1400 is any suitable rigid material, non-limitingexamples of which include a metal rod and a plastic rod. The supportstructure 1400 can be disposed within the toe posts 112 individuallysuch that they are not interconnected, or they can be connected throughattachment with the rigid material shown in FIG. 4.

Another aspect of a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 1500 accordingto the present invention is shown in FIG. 15. The foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device 1500 comprises a frame 1502 with a separator 1503for separating a plurality of toes. The frame 1502 may be constructed ofany suitable material, non-limiting examples of which include plastic,silicone, and cork. Additionally, the frame 1502 may be optionallyinflatable or filled with a fluid. When inflatable, the frame 1502 maybe inflatable to various pressures. Furthermore, the frame 1502 may beformed through any suitable means for forming a frame 1502, non-limitingexamples of which include injection molding, cast molding, compressionmolding, and extrusion molding. The frame 1502 has a top portion 1504, abottom portion 1506, a front portion 1508, and a back portion 1510.

Included in the frame 1502 are a plurality of holes 1514, eachconfigured for insertion of a toe. Each hole has an entrance on the backportion 1510, an exit on the front portion 1508, and surrounding walls1516. The surrounding walls 1516 may be flat, curved or any othersuitable shape to accommodate a toe. Additionally, the surrounding walls1516 in at least one hole of the plurality of holes 1514 is continuousand thereby sealed, serving as a sealed toe hole 1518. Additionally, thesurrounding walls 1516 in at least one other hole in the plurality ofholes 1514 is non-continuous and thereby not sealed, serving as anopenable toe hole 1520 allowing for easy insertion of a correspondingtoe or toes.

The openable toe hole 1520 may be sealed through use of an enclosure1522. Furthermore, the enclosure 1522 may be any suitable device ormechanism for attaching one medium with another, non-limiting examplesof which include Velcro, snaps, an elastic band, hole and pin, and amale/female joint system.

A foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 1500 with toes 1600 insertedtherein, is illustrated in FIG. 16. Although at least one hole in theplurality of holes 1514 serves as a sealed toe hole 1518, at least oneother hole in the plurality of holes 1514 is not sealed and serves as anopenable toe hole 1520. Because the openable toe hole 1520 is notsealed, the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 1500 may be easilydistorted and manipulated to allow easy insertion as well asarticulation and accommodation of toes 1600 therein. The significance ofthe openable toe hole 1520 is that without the openable toe hole 1520,the toe stretcher is not easily manipulated, thereby making it difficultto utilize existing toe stretchers.

The foot-therapy, exercise, and toe aligning device 1500 teachesspecific combinations of one or more closed and openable toe holes thatprovides for a superior balance of convenience for placing and securingthe device on the toes. These specific combinations also provide forsuperior therapeutic and exercise benefits for people with variations infoot and toe structure, foot conditioning, and pathology. The size,shape, and location of the toe hole openings provides unique andunanticipated benefits for people with varying foot and toe structures,conditions and pathology.

There are unique and novel advantages in the accommodation of toemovement/articulation, in passive and active use of the device 1500 thatresult from combinations of openable and closed toe openings. Forexample, a completely closed toe opening limits the amount of freedom(articulation) of movement that is available to the toes and feet. Undermany circumstances, such as stiff toes and pathologic foot conditions(i.e., bunions, hammer toes, cross toes, etc.), a specific combinationof closed and openable toe hole openings yields a more convenient andsuperior exercise and therapeutic result.

It should be noted that the configuration of the foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device 1500 illustrated in FIGS. 15 through 19 can includeeach of the devices and elements that are attached to or within theframe (and posts) as described and illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 14.For example and as can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, thereservoir, electronic devices, processing units, etc., can also beattached with (or within, as applicable) the frame 1502 of FIG. 15 toprovide an equivalent function to the user. It should also be noted thatthe mechanisms, elements, and devices described and illustrated withrespect to FIGS. 17 through 19 can also be attached with and used withthe foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 100 that is illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 14.

As shown in FIG. 17, the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 1500 canalso include a variety of implantation elements. In addition to theelectronic devices described above, the implantation element is anysuitable element that can be implanted, either fully or partially,within the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device 1500. Althoughillustrated as being fully implanted at various locations within thefoot-therapy and toe-aligning device 1500, the present invention is notintended to be limited thereto as the implantation elements, nor theirimplantation depths, can be affixed within the device 1500 at anydesired location and at any desired implantation depth.

The implantation element can be used to provide a variety of cosmetic,ornamental, entertainment, therapeutic, and educational benefits. As anon-limiting example, the implantation element is a light or a series oflights 1700. The lights 1700 can be used for a variety of purposes,non-limiting examples of which include light therapy and messaging. Forexample, the lights 1700 can be used for light therapy, where the lightbeing emitted is within a range of the light spectrum (e.g., infrared)that provides a therapeutic benefit to the user.

As another example, the lights 1700 can be used as a messaging system.If the lights are used as a light messaging system (such as a lightemitting diode (LED) system), the lights 1700 can be used to generate avariety of messages for entertainment, educational, ornamental, andadvertisement purposes. In another aspect, the implantation element canbe a display device 1702 that is used to display a variety of messages.As a non-limiting example, the display device 1702 can be a plastic disk(or any other suitable shape) that includes logos of recognizable sportsteams, groups, companies, events, etc. (e.g., Coca-Cola™, Detroit RedWings™, Beverly Hills Hotel™, etc.). As described above, thefoot-therapy and toe-aligning device 1500 can be formed of a transparentmaterial (e.g., a clear or colorless elastomeric gel or othertransparent material). It should be noted that the device 1500 can alsobe formed of translucent tents with color that allow for light to passtherethrough. Thus, when the display device 1702 is inserted within thefoot-therapy and toe-aligning device 1500, a user can easily see andread any messages imprinted upon or otherwise displayed by the displaydevice 1702.

Another non-limiting example of an implantation element is a thermometer1704 or other suitable sensing device. As described above, thethermometer 1704 (or other sensing device) can be used to monitor andcontrol the biological functions of the user to provide for therapeuticbenefits.

As yet another non-limiting example, the implantation element can be amagnet 1706 or several magnets. As can be appreciated by one skilled inthe art, the magnet 1706 can be used to provide a therapeutic benefit tothe user. In another aspect, the magnet 1706 can be used to attach anexternal object with the device 1500 and thereby operate as anattachment mechanism.

As shown in FIG. 18, the present invention also includes an attachmentmechanism that is attached with the frame 1502. The attachment mechanismis any suitable mechanism or device that is operable for detachablyattaching an external object 1800 with the device 1500. Non-limitingexamples of such attachment mechanisms include a magnet 1706 system, aclip mechanism 1802, a male/female plug mechanism 1804, and a hook andloop fastener (e.g. Velcro) 1806. The external object 1800 is anysuitable object that is desirable for connecting with the device 1500.For example, each of the electronic devices and implantation elements asdescribed above can be attached with the device 1500 as an externalobject 1800. As yet a further example, the display device (illustratedas element 1702 in FIG. 17) can be affixed externally as an externalobject 1800 instead of being implanted within the device 1502.

As described above with respect to FIG. 14, the present invention alsoincludes a support structure 1400, either preformed or formable.Although FIG. 14 illustrates the support structure 1400 as beinginserted within only the toe posts 112, the present invention is notintended to be limited thereto. As shown in FIG. 19, the supportstructure 1900 can be formed throughout (and within) the device 1500 toallow a user to customize the shape of the device 1500. In this aspect,the support structure 1900 is malleable or bendable such that itoperates as a formable armature. The support structure 1900 is formed ofany suitably re-shapeable material that maintains a new shape oncepositioned in the new shape, a non-limiting example of which includesmetallic wire. Thus, using the support structure 1900, a user can alterthe shape of the device 1500 to increase comfort, etc.

In summary, the present invention is an exercise foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device that is formed to include a myriad of features.Examples of such features include educational benefits, therapeuticeffects, advertisement opportunities, etc. Such features are providedusing a variety of devices and implementations (e.g., implantationelements, electronic devices, external objects, reservoir, supportstructure, etc.) that can be used with each of the aspects illustratedin FIGS. 1 through 19.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for using a foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device, comprising acts of: providing a foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device having a frame, the frame being formed of anelastomeric material and having a frame length extending between opposedfirst and second ends of the frame, the frame having a top portion, abottom portion, a front portion, a back portion, and further including afirst peripheral projection and a second peripheral projection, thefirst and second peripheral projections rising upwards from the firstand second ends of the frame, respectively, and wherein the framefurther includes a plurality of stretchable toe posts formed of anelastomeric material that are integrally formed with the top portion ofthe frame and are spaced apart along the frame length between the firstand second peripheral projections, each of the toe posts extendingupwards from the top portion of the frame along a center post axis to ahandle, and wherein the handle of each of the toe posts is independentof the handle of the other toe posts; and pulling a handle of at leastone of the toe posts away from the frame to stretch and elongate the toepost into an elongated state; and relaxing the toe post from itselongated state while the toe post is positioned between two adjacenttoes of a human foot so that the toe post contracts back towards theframe and applies an outward pressure against each of the adjacent toes.2. The method of using the foot-therapy and toe-aligning device setforth in claim 1, wherein the handle of each toe post comprises an outeredge of the toe post that is formed in a bulbous shape and extendsbeyond a portion of the toe post below the bulbous shape in alldirections.
 3. The method of using the foot-therapy and toe-aligningdevice set forth in claim 1, wherein relaxing of the toe post from itselongated state results in at least a portion of the handle residingabove the two adjacent toes.
 4. The method of using the foot-therapy andtoe-aligning device set forth in claim 1, further comprising:positioning the at least one toe post between the adjacent toes of thehuman foot while the toe post is in its elongated state as a result ofpulling the handle of the toe post.